how long does a pharmacy technician course take

What are the requirements to become a pharmacy tech?

• Candidates must be at least 18-years old.
• Candidates must have earned a GED or high school diploma.
• Candidates must have a clean criminal record – with no felonies.
• Candidates must have completed a recognized PTCB course.
• Candidates must register and complete the application from on the official PTCB website. ...

How long does it take to become a pharmacy technician?

• Managing and taking phone calls from patients and directing questions to the supervising pharmacist
• Managing the pharmacy's inventory and maintaining medications, including properly storing and disposing of medications
• Managing pharmacy supplies and placing orders
• Staying updated on current laws, policies and ethics regarding pharmaceutical practices

How to get Nationally Certified Pharmacy Tech?

To become certified with PTCB as a CPhT:

• Register online to create a PTCB Account.
• Apply for certification by logging in your PTCB Account and using the link available on your account homepage. ...
• Schedule your PTCE appointment once you have received your authorization to schedule email from PTCB. ...

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How to become a pharmacy technician?

Yet most interesting might be the emergence of options for consumers to access care locally in non-traditional settings, such as pharmacies or retail stores. In the past, consumers went to pharmacies and retail stores to shop for goods – groceries, electronics, and more. Today, these settings are quickly becoming complete health hubs.

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What are the requirements to be a pharmacy tech?

High school diploma or equivalentPharmacy technician / Entry level education

Is learning to be a pharmacy tech hard?

Becoming a pharmacy technician is not particularly difficult. There are several ways to obtain the necessary training and certification, including online programs and apprenticeship programs. The PTCB offers an assessment exam that can be taken at any Pearson VUE testing center.

How do I become a pharmacy technician in Canada?

International pharmacy techniciansStep 1: Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (PEBC) Document Evaluation. ... Step 2: Successfully Complete the PEBC Pharmacy Technician Qualifying Exam Part 1 (MCQ) ... Step 3: Proof of English Language Fluency. ... Step 4: Proof of Eligibility to Work in Canada. ... Step 5: Register with ACP.More items...

What kind of math does a pharmacy tech use?

There are many math concepts that are used in this career role such as addition and subtraction, fractions, determining percentages, weights, and even measurements. It is vital that you are skilled in math computation and have a strong background in math to ensure patients are receiving the correct dosage of medicine.

How much do pharmacy techs make?

The national average annual wage of an pharmacy technician is $34,020, according to the BLS, which is over $15,000 less than average annual salary for all occupations, $51,960. The average pharmacy technician salary can vary significantly depending on the state.

How much money does a pharmacy technician make in Canada?

The average pharmacy technician salary in Canada is $49,503 per year or $25.39 per hour. Entry-level positions start at $37,836 per year, while most experienced workers make up to $58,834 per year.

Is pharmacy technician a good career?

A pharmacy technician career is also a stable one with ample employment opportunities and increasing demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for pharmacy technicians is bright with an above-average growth rate.

What is the difference between pharmacy technician and pharmacy assistant?

Pharmacy technicians have more advanced clinical responsibilities than pharmacy assistants, who perform clerical duties like handling transactions, stocking shelves, and answering phone calls. Pharmacy technicians measure medications and process orders for patients.

How long does it take to become a pharmacy tech?

It can take up to two years to become a pharmacy technician, depending on your training or educational program. Essentially, there are three ways to become a pharmacy technician:

What kind of training is needed for a pharmacy technician?

Determine what kind of training program will be right for you. For instance, if you want to enter your career as quickly as possible, a diploma or certification program may be the best choice for you. If you're interested in moving beyond the role of a pharmacy technician in the future, an associate's program that prepares you for continuous career advancement may be the right type of program. No matter what kind of training and education you complete, your coursework will cover pharmacology, human anatomy and physiology, healthcare systems, laws and ethics and medical terminology.

What is PTCE in pharmacy?

The exam tests your knowledge and understanding of pharmacology applications, and certification demonstrates your ability to apply these concepts in the workplace. After obtaining your certification, you are fully qualified to work as a pharmacy technician.

What is PTCE exam?

The PTCE gives you the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT ) credential, which demonstrates your knowledge and understanding of pharmacology applications. The PTCB offers the PTCE as a computer-based exam with a total of 90 multiple-choice questions. Eighty of these questions are scored and 10 are unscored.

How often do you need to renew your pharmacy tech certification?

Pharmacy technician certification will require you to renew your credentials every two years. This is to ensure that you are up-to-date on new medical advances, changes to medications, newly introduced medications, laws, policies and other pharmacology-related trends. Many hospitals, clinics and public healthcare facilities support their pharmacy techs' continuing education to keep their certifications current.

What is the difference between a PTCB and a certified pharmacy technician?

Meanwhile, certified pharmacy technicians typically have both their state licensure plus national certification. PTCB certification is advantageous because it enables you to transfer across states for work. Additionally, certified pharmacy technicians usually have higher income potential .

What is a pharmacy tech?

Pharmacy technicians are integral members of a healthcare team who assist licensed pharmacists in many types of daily activities in the pharmacy. From filling medications to billing insurance companies, these professionals rely on their education and training to perform successfully in their careers. If you're interested in becoming a pharmacy technician, there are several aspects about your career path to consider. In this article, we'll discuss what pharmacy technicians do, the differences between registered and certified techs, how to become one and answer the question how long does it take to become a pharmacy technician?

How long does it take to become a pharmacy technician?

Programs that offer training and education towards becoming a pharmacy technician are available as certificates, diplomas, and associate's degrees, with certificate programs able to be completed in as little as 9 months. Coursework featured in pharmacy technician programs may commonly include: Pharmacology.

What is a pharmacy technician?

Pharmacy technicians are allied health professionals who help pharmacists by handling simple tasks on their behalf. Duties common to pharmacy technicians include gathering data from customers, dispensing medication, and taking inventory. Educational programs that can lead to a career as a pharmacy technician can often be completed in under a year, ...

What certifications do pharmacy technicians need?

Certification for pharmacy technicians is handled by two organizations: the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB), and the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). Both offer credentials referred to as Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT). The PTCB requires that applica nts hold a high school diploma or equivalent, disclose any prior criminal history, meet the organization's general policies, and pass the certification exam. Beginning in 2020, the PTCB will also require applicants complete a PT CB-recognized educational program or have an equivalent amount of work experience (500+ hours). The NHA credential has similar requirements, with applicants who have not completed an educational program needing a full year of work experience. Certification must be renewed every two years for both organizations. States may require a pharmacy technician to obtain certification in order to receive a license, but even in states where certification is not required, it is typically preferred by employers.

How often do you need to renew your pharmacy technician license?

Certification must be renewed every two years for both organizations. States may require a pharmacy technician to obtain certification in order to receive a license, but even in states where certification is not required, it is typically preferred by employers.

How old do you have to be to be a pharmacy tech?

Pharmacy technicians must be at least 18 years old, and hold a high school diploma or the equivalent. Background checks and drug screenings are commonly required, due to the restrictions placed on ...

How many hours do you need to be a PTCB?

Beginning in 2020, the PTCB will also require applicants complete a PTCB-recognized educational program or have an equivalent amount of work experience (500+ hours). The NHA credential has similar requirements, with applicants who have not completed an educational program needing a full year of work experience.

Do pharmacy technicians need to be certified?

Pharmacy technicians are sometimes trained on-the-job, and this job experience can also be used to obtain certification under certain circumstances. Some states do require that pharmacy technicians receive certification and/or licensure in order to work, which may make formal training mandatory.

What is a pharmacy technician?

A pharmacy technician’s job is to assist the pharmacist with certain daily tasks such as entering data, measuring out and packaging medications, processing payment information, and accurately placing the correct labels on medication. That’s in addition to more basic skills like answering phone calls, taking inventory of the pharmacy’s supplies, and providing high quality customer service. It’s a position that requires a great deal of precision and attention to detail as well as an understanding of basic pharmacology, expertise in dispensing medication, and a deep knowledge of pharmacy law and ethics.

What certification do pharmacy technicians need?

You should be aware of two main types of certification for pharmacy technicians as you set out to start your new career. The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) certification requires pharmacy technicians to have a high school diploma and pass a certification exam.

How old do you have to be to become a pharmacy technician?

The National Healthcareer Association (NHA) Certification has a minimum age requirement of 18 years and requires applicants to have a high school diploma, complete a formal training program, and have at least 1 year of work experience before they can sit for the certification exam.

How often do pharmacy technicians need to recertify?

Pharmacy technicians are required to re-certify every 2 years to make sure they’re up-to-date with all of the healthcare changes and advances that affect their scope of practice. You can do this by completing 20 hours of continuing education to ensure your skills are current.

How much do pharmacy technicians make?

Furthermore, pharmacy technicians have the potential to earn a promising salary, with an average base pay of about $32k a year. There are also plenty of advancement opportunities available in this field, ranging from internal promotions to specialty certifications.

How old do you have to be to get a healthcare certification?

The National Healthcareer Association (NHA) Certification has a minimum age requirement of 18 years and requires applicants to have a high school diploma, complete a formal training program, and have at least 1 year of work experience before they can sit for the certification exam.

Do pharmacies have flexible hours?

Flexible hours are another perk that go hand in hand with this position. Many pharmacies now operate 24/7, which opens the doors to both traditional and alternative shift schedules. And because there are so many pharmacies all around the world, it’s easy to relocate and take your degree with you if you end up moving elsewhere — a major work benefit for military spouses.

How long does it take to become a pharmacy tech?

You can likely have a job in the field within two years.

How long does it take to get a vocational degree?

Once you’re accepted to a vocational program, your education could take 15 weeks with accelerated courses to two years for a diploma, certificate, and associate degrees.

How long does it take to become a pharmacy technician at Cambridge College?

Cambridge College offers our Pharmacy Technician certification program to students ready to enter the field. Our program takes approximately 36 weeks to complete, so less than a year.

Where do pharmacy technicians work?

Pharmacy technicians often work in pharmacies and medical centers on the frontlines of patient care . They take prescription orders, prepare prescriptions and dispense medications to help patients struggling through illness and injury.

Is pharmacy tech a career?

A career as a pharmacy technician is a rewarding one, full of possibilities. If you’re interested in becoming a pharmacy tech, you might be wondering how long it will take and how difficult a path it will be. Rest assured, we’re here to help.

What do you learn in pharmacy tech?

What You Learn in a Pharmacy Technician Training Program. A pharmacy technician training program teach es the knowledge and skills you need to provide safe, ethical service to customers and act as an effective member of the pharmacy team. Topics of study can include:

How much do pharmacy technicians make?

Bureau of Labor Statistics, the economy could add an additional 47,600 job openings for pharmacy technicians over the 2016-2026 period—a growth rate of about 12 percent. As of May 2017, the entry-level salary for pharmacy technicians was $22,000, while the median salary was $31,750.

What is the term for how medications interact with human physiology and with each other?

Pharmacology: how medications interact with human physiology and with each other

Can a pharmacy technician mix prescriptions?

In some states, pharmacy technicians may be able to mix and compound personalized prescriptions or call doctors to authorize refills

Do you need to be a certified pharmacy technician?

Some states also require certified pharmacy technicians to register or obtain licensure. Make sure you know what your state requires before beginning your training program. Even in states without regulation, obtaining certification can sharpen your competitive edge in the job market. That’s why Altierus includes PTCB examination preparation and testing fees as part of our pharmacy technician training program.

How long does it take to become a pharmacy technician?

Pharmacy technicians can get the training necessary to enter the profession in less than a year. Many vocational programs are 9 to 12 months long. However, more students are opting to pursue an Associate of Science degree, studying for a full 2 years to become more competitive as job applicants.

What degree do pharmacy techs need?

Pharmacy technicians need postsecondary training or education to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to function effectively in the workplace. In general, either a vocational tech certificate or an associate degree in Pharmacy Technology is acceptable as long as it is accredited by the American Society of Health -System Pharmacists (ASHP), ...

What is the PTCB certification?

Some states also require professional certification with the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB), the primary credentialing organization for pharmacy technicians in the U.S. To get certified, graduates must pass its National Pharmacy Technician Certification Examination. After receiving certification, CPhTs are responsible for renewing their professional status on a periodic basis. The interval, however, is determined by the state. About 1 in 3 pharmacy techs need continuing education credits to keep their certifications valid and up to date.

How old do you have to be to become a pharmacy tech?

To get into a pharmacy technician school, most candidates need to be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or the GED equivalent. Because of the nature of the profession, aspiring pharmacy techs will need to undergo a criminal background check.

What is a pharmacy tech program?

Pharmacy technician programs focus on basic pharmaceutical techniques and technology, and also cover significant legal and ethical issues. Moreover, in good pharmacy tech schools, an internship in a retail or clinical pharmacy setting supplements the classroom coursework. Note that some interns will have to register with the state or obtain a temporary license before they can work directly with patients.

Is PTCB certification voluntary?

For most graduates, PTCB certification is voluntary, but even these techs may benefit from the prestige of national professional recognition. Moreover, pharmacy technician training is becoming more standardized over time; the remaining non-regulatory states are moving to regulate pharmacy technicians, so certification could soon become more widespread.

Do pharmacy techs need continuing education?

About 1 in 3 pharmacy techs need continuing education credits to keep their certifications valid and up to date. For most graduates, PTCB certification is voluntary, but even these techs may benefit from the prestige of national professional recognition.

How many paths are there to becoming a pharmacy technician?

There are two distinct paths to becoming a pharmacy technician:

What is a pharmacy technician certification?

Certification is another way to prove you've completed the required education and gained the necessary skills to work in this career. Unlike a license, a certificate comes through a third-party agency and not your state’s government.

Why is a pharmacy technician important?

A pharmacy technician’s work is invaluable. It helps the pharmacist work more effectively which helps keep patients safe.

How did pharmacy technicians get their training?

There was once a time when almost all pharmacy technicians got their training on the job. First, they would apply to work at a local pharmacy. After learning the cash register and how to stock shelves , the pharmacist would teach them how to type up labels, count out pills, and record all of the necessary patient and insurance information.

What is a pharmacy technician associates degree?

Pharmacy technician associate’s degree programs provide a greater depth of study in the pharmaceutical sciences and in management and customer service, as well as gen ed classes.

What does a pharmacy tech do?

As a pharmacy tech you’ll work with licensed pharmacists to accurately and safely process patient prescriptions.

What is the role of a pharmacy technician?

The role of a pharmacy technician goes far beyond helping process prescription requests and taking care of packaging and labeling. Their work makes an enormous difference in the efficiency and safety of pharmacy operations.

How many hours of continuing education do pharmacy technicians need?

Both the National Healthcareer Association and the Pharmacy Technician Training Board require 20 hours of continuing education every two years as a condition of certification renewal.

What is a pharmacy technician?

Pharmacy technicians work alongside pharmacists in drugstore and hospital pharmacies. Technician duties include filling prescriptions under the supervision of a pharmacist, handling insurance paperwork and providing customer service to patrons. While many pharmacy technicians receive on-the-job training, some choose to complete a formal educational program in pharmacy technology. Program lengths vary, but many take less than a year to complete. Some pharmacy technicians enroll in two-year associate degree programs that may provide additional career opportunities as well as a foundation for completing a bachelor's degree and eventual admission to pharmacy school.

How many states require pharmacy technicians to be licensed?

About 80 percent of the states regulate pharmacy technicians by requiring them to become licensed, register with the state or hold professional certification. According to the Pharmacy Technicians Certification Board, as of April 2013, eight states require licensure, while 29 require registration. Licensure and registration requirements vary but may include either the completion of a training program or earning certification from a recognized pharmacy technician professional association. States may also require pharmacy technicians to take and pass a comprehensive examination before working behind the counter at a pharmacy.